Exodus 10:19

And the LORD changed the wind to a very strong west wind that carried off the locusts and blew them into the Red Sea. Not a single locust remained anywhere in Egypt.

Study Bible

And the LORD changed the wind
This phrase highlights the sovereignty and power of God over nature. In the biblical context, God often uses natural elements to accomplish His purposes, as seen in the plagues of Egypt. The changing of the wind signifies a divine intervention, emphasizing that the plagues were not random natural disasters but acts of God.

to a very strong west wind
The west wind is significant as it comes from the direction of the Mediterranean Sea, contrasting with the east wind that brought the locusts. This change in direction symbolizes a reversal of the plague. In the ancient Near East, winds were often seen as manifestations of divine will, and a strong wind would be understood as a powerful act of God.

that carried off the locusts
The removal of the locusts demonstrates God's control over the situation and His ability to both bring and remove judgment. Locusts were a common and devastating plague in the ancient world, often symbolizing destruction and famine. Their removal signifies relief and the possibility of restoration.

and blew them into the Red Sea
The Red Sea, or "Sea of Reeds," is a significant geographical location in the Exodus narrative. The blowing of the locusts into the sea not only removes them from the land but also foreshadows the later miraculous crossing of the Israelites. This act can be seen as a type of cleansing, removing the impurity of the plague from the land.

Not a single locust remained anywhere in Egypt
This complete removal underscores the totality of God's deliverance. It highlights the thoroughness of God's actions and His ability to restore order. The phrase also serves as a testament to the effectiveness of God's power, leaving no trace of the previous devastation, which can be seen as a precursor to the complete deliverance of Israel from Egypt.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who demonstrates His power and sovereignty over creation and the false gods of Egypt.

2. Pharaoh
The ruler of Egypt, whose heart is hardened against releasing the Israelites, leading to the plagues as a demonstration of God's power.

3. Moses
The prophet and leader of the Israelites, who acts as God's messenger to Pharaoh, demanding the release of God's people.

4. The Locusts
The eighth plague sent by God upon Egypt, devastating the land and demonstrating God's control over nature.

5. The Red Sea
The body of water into which the locusts are driven, symbolizing God's deliverance and judgment.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty Over Nature
God controls the elements, as seen in His command over the wind and the locusts. This reminds us of His ultimate authority over all creation.

Judgment and Deliverance
The removal of the locusts signifies both judgment on Egypt and deliverance for Israel. It highlights God's ability to both judge sin and provide salvation.

The Power of Repentance
Pharaoh's temporary repentance leads to the removal of the plague, illustrating the importance of turning to God, though true repentance requires a change of heart.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
Despite Pharaoh's resistance, God remains faithful to His promise to deliver Israel, encouraging us to trust in His promises in our lives.

The Importance of Obedience
The plagues serve as a warning of the consequences of disobedience to God, urging us to live in accordance with His will.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's control over the wind and locusts in Exodus 10:19 demonstrate His sovereignty in your life today?

2. In what ways can the removal of the locusts be seen as both an act of judgment and mercy? How does this apply to your understanding of God's character?

3. Compare the role of the Red Sea in Exodus 10:19 and Exodus 14. What does this teach us about God's methods of deliverance?

4. How can the temporary repentance of Pharaoh serve as a warning for us in our spiritual walk? What does true repentance look like according to Scripture?

5. Reflect on a time when you experienced God's faithfulness in your life. How does this encourage you to trust Him with current challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 14
The parting of the Red Sea, where God again uses the wind to deliver His people and judge the Egyptians, showing His continued power and faithfulness.

Joel 2
The prophecy of locusts as a symbol of judgment, which also calls for repentance and highlights God's mercy and restoration.

Psalm 78
A recounting of the plagues, including the locusts, as a reminder of God's mighty acts and the importance of obedience and faithfulness.